Shubman Gill Rises to No.1 in ODI Rankings: Ricky Ponting Applauds Young Indian Star

In a monumental achievement for Indian cricket, young batting sensation Shubman Gill has claimed the No.1 spot in the ICC ODI rankings. Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting has lauded the 24-year-old, stating that Gill “richly deserves” the top ranking, recognizing his remarkable consistency and dominance in the 50-over format.

Gill’s Journey to the Top

Shubman Gill’s rise in ODI cricket has been nothing short of extraordinary. The young right-handed batsman has showcased immense talent, patience, and class, earning widespread admiration. Gill’s impressive performances in 2023 and 2024 have played a pivotal role in securing his place as the world’s top-ranked ODI batsman.

His ability to adapt to different conditions and dominate bowlers worldwide has set him apart from his contemporaries. With crucial knocks against top-tier teams, including Australia, England, and South Africa, Gill has demonstrated his ability to lead India’s batting lineup.

Ponting’s Praise for Gill

Australian cricket legend Ricky Ponting has been an admirer of Shubman Gill’s technique and temperament. Speaking about Gill’s latest accomplishment, Ponting stated:

“Shubman Gill richly deserves the No.1 ODI ranking. He has been in phenomenal form over the past year, scoring runs against top teams consistently. His ability to play both spin and pace with such composure makes him a special talent. He has all the qualities to become one of the best batters of this generation.”

Ponting further emphasized Gill’s potential to lead Indian cricket in the years to come. Drawing parallels between Gill and some of the best batters in the game’s history, Ponting remarked that the young Indian cricketer has all the makings of a modern-day great.

A Stellar 2023-24 Season

Gill’s exceptional form has been the driving force behind his ascent in the ICC rankings. Some of his standout performances include:

• A brilliant double century (208) against New Zealand in January 2023, making him the youngest cricketer to score a double hundred in ODIs.
• A century against Australia in the ODI World Cup 2023, proving his ability to rise to the occasion on the biggest stage.
• A series of match-winning knocks in bilateral series, solidifying his reputation as India’s most dependable top-order batsman.

Gill’s Reaction to the No.1 Ranking

After achieving the milestone, Gill expressed his gratitude towards his coaches, teammates, and fans. He mentioned how hard he has worked on his game and how this ranking serves as motivation to continue performing at the highest level.

“It’s a great feeling to be ranked No.1 in ODIs. I have always looked up to players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, who have set such high standards. This achievement is special, but I know there’s a long way to go. I’ll keep pushing myself to improve and contribute to India’s success.”

What’s Next for Gill?

With the T20 World Cup and several key ODI series lined up, Gill will have more opportunities to showcase his talent on the global stage. Fans and cricketing experts believe that he has the potential to dominate all three formats of the game, much like his predecessors Virat Kohli and Sachin Tendulkar.

As India prepares for upcoming international challenges, Shubman Gill will undoubtedly remain a cornerstone of the team’s batting lineup. His hunger for runs and commitment to excellence make him one of the most exciting prospects in world cricket today.

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